Knock Airport

Car Hire

Knock Airport, now known as Ireland West Airport Knock, is located a mere three miles southwest of Charlestown, in County Mayo. Also known as Aerfort Larthar Éireann in Irish, the airport is situated near to the popular tourist village of Knock. The close proximity of the airport to a main road means it is easy to self-drive to surrounding areas. Hiring a vehicle allows customers to reach their destination with ease and take in the stunning countryside that Ireland is famous for.

Who to Book With There are four car rental companies located in Knock Airport. International companies Hertz, Europcar, Avis and Budget all offer a wide variety of vehicles. It is possible to book in advance, but cars can also be rented on the day. Vehicles can be picked up directly outside of the terminal.

Need to Know Essentials For those who have pre-booked a vehicle, the following documentation will need to be presented on pick up:

- A valid driver’s licence (both parts) - A valid passport - The credit card used to book the vehicle - A booking confirmation email or reference number - Proof of address, such as a phone bill

Driving Driving in Ireland is not that different to driving in England. The same road rules apply, although speed and distance signs are in kilometres. There are strict on-the-spot fines for anyone caught driving over the speed limit. The drink-driving limit is the same as in England (0.08 per cent) and the penalties for those caught over the limit are severe. All passengers must wear a seatbelt at all times. Motorways are well maintained, although some country roads are worn. It is advisable to use either sat nav or a road map as not all of the roads are signposted adequately.

Transport

As there is no train station at the airport―with the nearest one at Claremorris, around 15 miles away―passengers who opt not to self-drive have a choice of buses or taxis. Buses run to the surrounding areas until around 23:00. After this time, taxis are the only option.

Taxis There are taxis which are specifically licensed by Knock Airport, including Ireland West Cabs and John Henry Cabs. They can be found outside the main entrance or they can be pre-booked via the airport website. There is also the option of a limousine service for those wanting to arrive at their destination in style.

Taxi prices: Knock Airport to Charlestown is about £10 Knock Airport to Ballina is about £30 Knock Airport to Galway is about £80 Knock Airport to Dublin is about £200

Buses The national bus company Bus Eireann has daily coach services from the airport to surrounding areas such as Galway, Sligo, Donegal and Mayo. Services run frequently six days a week (no Sunday service). Prices vary according to destination and tickets can be purchased onboard.

Facilities

Terminals Knock Airport’s location means it has become the main gateway for passengers heading to the west, northwest and midland regions of the country. This has lead to rapid development and an increase in flights throughout the year. It has now become the country’s fourth busiest international airport. EasyJet and Thomas Cook both have regular scheduled flights to Knock Airport.

Parking There is a huge amount of parking available for passengers wishing to leave their vehicle at the airport. Recently, paying for parking at the airport barrier using a credit card has been made possible: this has reduced queues at the pay station. Parking for 15 minutes is free, with prices ranging from £1.50 for one hour to £400 for one year thereafter. All car parks close at 18:30.

Wi-Fi There is Wi-Fi available free of charge. There are also a number of coin-operated computers with internet.

Information Services The information services are located on the ground floor of the terminal building. Here, passengers can get information on local events and sights, along with help booking hotels and transport. Additionally, problems with flights or lost luggage can be reported here.

Useful Numbers Service Centre: +353 94 9368100

Accessibility Knock Airport complies with the European standards with regards to accessibility. There are a number of lifts and ramps, along with disabled persons’ bathroom facilities and wheelchair hire. Disabled persons’ parking is available directly outside of the main entrance. Further assistance can be sought through the information services.

Restaurants and Bars There are a number of restaurants and bars available in the terminal. Sláinte restaurant can be found on the first floor of the main terminal. Here, customers can buy hot meals and a range of beverages and desserts. There is also a children’s play area and an ice-cream parlour. Danann’s café-bar is a fully licensed bar where passengers can purchase alcoholic beverages.

VIP Lounges Ireland West Executive Lounge

Money and ATMs There is a Bank of Ireland ATM in the main terminal’s Arrivals area, directly opposite a bureau de change. Although the ATM dispenses euro only, the bureau de change can exchange a wide variety of currencies. There is another ATM in Departures.

Shopping The ShopWest retail shop is the best place for passengers to pick up duty-free items before boarding. Here, you will find a wide variety of duty-free products such as Swarovski jewellery, designer items from Hugo Boss, Burberry and Prada, along with a range of wines, beers and spirits.